Nevada’s Red Fir Named ‘People’s Tree’ for U.S. Capitol

In a historic first, a Nevada red fir has been designated as the “People’s Tree” for the U.S. Capitol this holiday season. This significant selection marks the first time in the 55-year tradition of the Capitol Christmas Tree that the honor has been bestowed upon a tree from Nevada. The 53-foot-tall, 100-year-old fir, affectionately named “Silver Belle,” was harvested from the Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, which is the largest national forest in the contiguous United States.

Silver Belle was chosen for its impressive size and aesthetic appeal. Jim Kaufmann, executive director of the Capitol Grounds and Arboretum at the Architect of the Capitol, oversaw the selection process. He noted that while trees were also considered from the Spring Mountains near Las Vegas, Silver Belle stood out for its vibrant blue-green foliage and robust branches. “It was like, ‘There you go. That’s a perfect Christmas tree right there,’” Kaufmann remarked.

Harvesting and Journey to the Capitol

The tree was harvested at the end of October from the Mount Rose area near Reno, at an elevation of approximately 2,400 meters. It took a collaborative effort to ensure the tree was properly transported to Washington, D.C. Workers secured the top section with a crane to prevent damage during the cutting process. After being carefully lowered onto a custom-built trailer designed to keep it hydrated, Silver Belle began its journey across the country, making stops in various cities, including Carson City, Lovelock, Elko, Ely, and Las Vegas.

In a nod to Nevada’s rich history, Representative Mark Amodei, who represents the region where Silver Belle was harvested, reflected on the tree’s significance. He emphasized the historical context of logging in the area dating back to the Comstock Lode discovery over 160 years ago, which led to extensive logging practices in the region. “They cut everything for Virginia City,” Amodei noted, underlining the importance of sustainable forest management today.

Celebrating Nevada’s Natural Heritage

Silver Belle will be prominently displayed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, adorned with 10,000 locally handmade ornaments that celebrate Nevada’s culture and craftsmanship. The lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 2, 2023, and will feature a special guest: Grady Armstrong, a fourth grader from Virginia City, who won an essay contest related to the Capitol Christmas tree. Armstrong will read his essay, themed “Starry Skies to Neon Lights: Spirit of the Silver State,” during the ceremony.

The selection of Silver Belle not only highlights Nevada’s stunning natural landscapes but also showcases the collaborative efforts among various stakeholders. Kacey KC, Nevada’s state forester and firewarden, remarked on the importance of partnerships in managing the state’s forests effectively. “Thanks to our Shared Stewardship Agreement, these partnerships are stronger than ever,” she stated, emphasizing their role in protecting Nevada’s public lands.

The red fir, known scientifically as Abies magnifica, is particularly suited for this role due to its symmetrical shape and ability to hold ornaments securely. Its ecological importance extends beyond the holiday season; the tree provides habitats for numerous wildlife species and plays a vital role in forest ecosystems.

As the nation prepares to celebrate the holiday season, Silver Belle will serve as a reminder of Nevada’s rich landscapes and the ongoing efforts to preserve its natural heritage. The lighting of the tree will symbolize not just the joy of the holiday season but also the importance of protecting America’s public lands for future generations.